Country Music Newshttp://wbch.com
Music news, headlines, and gossip from ABC News Radioen-us(c) ABC News RadioPants-less at the ACMs? Shay Mooney's plan to guard against a wardrobe malfunctionhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/a0ff1b884b99dc8d61f7cdfaa2b51449
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 12:56:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/a0ff1b884b99dc8d61f7cdfaa2b51449ABC/Image Group LAIf you watched Dan Shay’s February performance at the Grammys closely, you might’ve noticed that Shay Mooney had a minor wardrobe malfunction: He left the barn door open, as they say in the South. In other words, his fly was open.

Of course, any embarrassment Shay might’ve felt was no doubt smoothed over by the fact the duo took home a Grammy for the song they were singing, “Tequila" -- but fans have their backs when it comes to their upcoming award show appearance.

As Dan Shay prepare to take the stage at the April 7 ACM Awards in Las Vegas, one follower joked on Twitter, “Make sure your pants are zipped for this performance,” and added the laugh-until-you-cry emoji.

Shay took it in stride, though, retweeting the post and adding, “I’ve decided to go sans pants.”

In case you don't speak French, "sans" means "without."

Shay and Dan Smyers are in a pretty good spot going into the ACMs: They tie Chris Stapleton as this year’s most-nominated act, with six nods. Dan could even pick up several extra trophies as a writer and producer.

You can tune in to see who wins -- and what Shay wears -- Sunday, April 7 as the 54th ACMs air live from MGM Grand Garden Arena starting at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

]]>ABC/Image Group LAIf you watched Dan Shay’s February performance at the Grammys closely, you might’ve noticed that Shay Mooney had a minor wardrobe malfunction: He left the barn door open, as they say in the South. In other words, his fly was open.

Of course, any embarrassment Shay might’ve felt was no doubt smoothed over by the fact the duo took home a Grammy for the song they were singing, “Tequila" -- but fans have their backs when it comes to their upcoming award show appearance.

As Dan Shay prepare to take the stage at the April 7 ACM Awards in Las Vegas, one follower joked on Twitter, “Make sure your pants are zipped for this performance,” and added the laugh-until-you-cry emoji.

Shay took it in stride, though, retweeting the post and adding, “I’ve decided to go sans pants.”

In case you don't speak French, "sans" means "without."

Shay and Dan Smyers are in a pretty good spot going into the ACMs: They tie Chris Stapleton as this year’s most-nominated act, with six nods. Dan could even pick up several extra trophies as a writer and producer.

You can tune in to see who wins -- and what Shay wears -- Sunday, April 7 as the 54th ACMs air live from MGM Grand Garden Arena starting at 8 p.m. ET on CBS.

]]>"Girl Goin' Nowhere" sends Ashley McBryde to the Daytime Emmyshttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/f86aebf51bb42fa6c374c1f0c81873db
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 11:46:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/f86aebf51bb42fa6c374c1f0c81873dbAtlantic/Warner NashvilleAshley McBryde’s been nominated for a Grammy and two Academy of Country Music Awards -- but now, she has a shot at a Daytime Emmy.

The “Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” hitmaker is up for Outstanding Musical Performance in a Daytime Program for singing her current single, “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” plus her song “American Scandal,” on CBS This Morning Saturday.

“Holy crap! What is life right now!?!” the critical favorite reacted on social media. “Thank you so much.”

Both tunes are from her Grammy-nominated major label debut, Girl Going Nowhere. If you missed Ashley’s award-worthy performances from late December, you can watch them via Facebook and YouTube.

In the past, both Trisha Yearwood and Little Big Town have taken home the coveted trophies.

The 46th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be handed out Sunday, May 5 at California's Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

Next month, the Arkansas native is up for both New Female Artist and Female Artist of the Year at the ACMs in Las Vegas.

]]>Atlantic/Warner NashvilleAshley McBryde’s been nominated for a Grammy and two Academy of Country Music Awards -- but now, she has a shot at a Daytime Emmy.

The “Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” hitmaker is up for Outstanding Musical Performance in a Daytime Program for singing her current single, “Girl Goin’ Nowhere,” plus her song “American Scandal,” on CBS This Morning Saturday.

“Holy crap! What is life right now!?!” the critical favorite reacted on social media. “Thank you so much.”

Both tunes are from her Grammy-nominated major label debut, Girl Going Nowhere. If you missed Ashley’s award-worthy performances from late December, you can watch them via Facebook and YouTube.

In the past, both Trisha Yearwood and Little Big Town have taken home the coveted trophies.

The 46th Annual Daytime Emmy Awards will be handed out Sunday, May 5 at California's Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

Next month, the Arkansas native is up for both New Female Artist and Female Artist of the Year at the ACMs in Las Vegas.

]]>Get ready for a "Rival": LANCO delivers motivation to fight with new anthemhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/1394d05523d6a8a76e31b02d478a2778
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/1394d05523d6a8a76e31b02d478a2778ABC/Image Group LA If there's ever been a country equivalent of Survivor's Rocky smash, "Eye of the Tiger," it just may be LANCO's driving new single, "Rival."

Lead singer Brandon Lancaster and drummer Tripp Howell wrote the song one night after hitting on a universal theme.

"It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from or what you're doing in life," Brandon explains, "everyone has a moment where they feel like their back is against the wall where maybe people aren't rooting for 'em."

Brandon and Tripp conceived "Rival" as an anthem to encourage you when you're in that situation.

"It's important to tell people that you matter and you're important and be proud of who you are, be proud of where you come from," Brandon goes on. "And go do what you want in life, and if there is anyone that wants to stand in your way, that's all right, that's just reality. Chock 'em up as a rival and use 'em as motivation."

Though LANCO's follow-up to their debut album, Hallelujah Nights, isn't finished yet, they agree "Rival" is a good preview of their sophomore record.

"I think with any song you want to think of an idea a lot of people can relate to," Brandon continues, "that you can also relate to strongly, and it kinda met those two qualifications... But it also just was a good introduction to the next chapter of what we want to do.

LANCO's nominated for both Group of the Year and New Duo or Group of the Year at next month's Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas. They're currently on the Beer Never Broke My Heart Tour with label mate Luke Combs.

]]>ABC/Image Group LA If there's ever been a country equivalent of Survivor's Rocky smash, "Eye of the Tiger," it just may be LANCO's driving new single, "Rival."

Lead singer Brandon Lancaster and drummer Tripp Howell wrote the song one night after hitting on a universal theme.

"It doesn't matter who you are or where you come from or what you're doing in life," Brandon explains, "everyone has a moment where they feel like their back is against the wall where maybe people aren't rooting for 'em."

Brandon and Tripp conceived "Rival" as an anthem to encourage you when you're in that situation.

"It's important to tell people that you matter and you're important and be proud of who you are, be proud of where you come from," Brandon goes on. "And go do what you want in life, and if there is anyone that wants to stand in your way, that's all right, that's just reality. Chock 'em up as a rival and use 'em as motivation."

Though LANCO's follow-up to their debut album, Hallelujah Nights, isn't finished yet, they agree "Rival" is a good preview of their sophomore record.

"I think with any song you want to think of an idea a lot of people can relate to," Brandon continues, "that you can also relate to strongly, and it kinda met those two qualifications... But it also just was a good introduction to the next chapter of what we want to do.

LANCO's nominated for both Group of the Year and New Duo or Group of the Year at next month's Academy of Country Music Awards in Las Vegas. They're currently on the Beer Never Broke My Heart Tour with label mate Luke Combs.

]]>Country star triviahttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/55630496fb94615f7a39fdd3da3d5aee
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/55630496fb94615f7a39fdd3da3d5aeeComstock/Thinkstock Seventeen years ago this week, Faith Hill performed this song from the movie Pearl Harbor at the Academy Awards. Can you name it? ANSWER: "There You'll Be."

]]>When the music business got Scotty McCreery down, he used a baseball tactic to bounce backhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/effdf7cdee97a50d472ddf2b36465616
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/effdf7cdee97a50d472ddf2b36465616ABC/Image Group LA

Scotty McCreery celebrated his second consecutive number one, "This Is It," at a party Wednesday afternoon at ASCAP in Nashville.

The American Idol winner admits it's particularly sweet, because it wasn't that long ago he faced an uncertain future, after parting ways with his first record label.

"One of the things I've learned through my whole life is that things are never on a straight line," the North Carolina native reflects. "It's never always gonna be up, it's never always gonna be down. You've just gotta keep rolling. And I can think back to plenty of times in my life where I got knocked down and had to get back up again. 2016 was that year for me, musically..."

Scotty goes on: "I could go [back] to middle school in my seventh grade year, getting cut from my baseball team," he continues, "And I was just like, 'Are you kidding me?'"

But Scotty faced his challenges in the music industry much like he dealt with his teenage disappointment.

"I worked my tail off for an entire year," he recalls, "tried out again in eighth grade, and I was the number-one pitcher and our clean-up batter that whole year..."

"So there's a lot of moments in life where you get knocked down," Scotty explains, "but you can have one of two reactions: you can just say, 'Oh, that stinks and I'll never do that again.' Or you can pick yourself up, work harder, and go at it again. And that's kinda what I did back then, and what I did these last couple years."

Scotty's third single from his Seasons Change album -- and perhaps his third #1 -- is the track "In Between."

Scotty McCreery celebrated his second consecutive number one, "This Is It," at a party Wednesday afternoon at ASCAP in Nashville.

The American Idol winner admits it's particularly sweet, because it wasn't that long ago he faced an uncertain future, after parting ways with his first record label.

"One of the things I've learned through my whole life is that things are never on a straight line," the North Carolina native reflects. "It's never always gonna be up, it's never always gonna be down. You've just gotta keep rolling. And I can think back to plenty of times in my life where I got knocked down and had to get back up again. 2016 was that year for me, musically..."

Scotty goes on: "I could go [back] to middle school in my seventh grade year, getting cut from my baseball team," he continues, "And I was just like, 'Are you kidding me?'"

But Scotty faced his challenges in the music industry much like he dealt with his teenage disappointment.

"I worked my tail off for an entire year," he recalls, "tried out again in eighth grade, and I was the number-one pitcher and our clean-up batter that whole year..."

"So there's a lot of moments in life where you get knocked down," Scotty explains, "but you can have one of two reactions: you can just say, 'Oh, that stinks and I'll never do that again.' Or you can pick yourself up, work harder, and go at it again. And that's kinda what I did back then, and what I did these last couple years."

Scotty's third single from his Seasons Change album -- and perhaps his third #1 -- is the track "In Between."

]]>Nashville noteshttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/f22b8a779a7b3dbc8e37679ddc43ce1d
Thu, 21 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/f22b8a779a7b3dbc8e37679ddc43ce1dBurke/Triolo Productions/Thinkstock Kacey Musgraves and her husband, Ruston Kelly, are both set to play Lollapalooza August 1-4 in Grant Park in Chicago.

Tanya Tucker is launching her own of tequila called Cosa Salvaje, which means "wild thing" in Spanish. You can find out more at CosaSalvajeTequila.com.

1959's "Long Black Veil" by Country Music Hall of Famer Lefty Frizzell is one of songs being included in the latest class of the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry.

If you missed Jordan Davis doing his #1 hit, "Take It from Me," on ABC's Good Morning America, you can check out his performance online.

]]>Red high heels: Dolly Parton and LBT's Karen Fairchild host parties for designer Christian Louboutinhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/1db4ebae57c985a0afec26d5344ee504
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 17:07:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/1db4ebae57c985a0afec26d5344ee504Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Nordstrom, Inc.A major figure in the fashion industry been spending some time in Music City, and who better to entertain him than Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Dolly Parton?

On Tuesday night, Karen and her husband Jimi Westbrook hosted a cocktail party for the famed high-heel designer at their private home. Martina McBride, Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi, Brothers Osborne’s John Osborne and more big names were there.

“Last night was one for the books,” Karen posted on Instagram. “Thank you Mr. Louboutin for coming to Nashville and thank you for the most insane boots. You know my love language.”

You can check out Karen’s new dazzling gold ankle boots in the photo accompanying the post.

Earlier in the week, Dolly Parton threw a dinner party for Mr. Louboutin with her fashion guru, Steve Summers.

]]>Jason Kempin/Getty Images for Nordstrom, Inc.A major figure in the fashion industry been spending some time in Music City, and who better to entertain him than Little Big Town’s Karen Fairchild and Dolly Parton?

On Tuesday night, Karen and her husband Jimi Westbrook hosted a cocktail party for the famed high-heel designer at their private home. Martina McBride, Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi, Brothers Osborne’s John Osborne and more big names were there.

“Last night was one for the books,” Karen posted on Instagram. “Thank you Mr. Louboutin for coming to Nashville and thank you for the most insane boots. You know my love language.”

You can check out Karen’s new dazzling gold ankle boots in the photo accompanying the post.

Earlier in the week, Dolly Parton threw a dinner party for Mr. Louboutin with her fashion guru, Steve Summers.

]]>Reba's on the mend, and ready for you to join her for the ACMs in Vegashttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/0261ffa3fab0b1f7e0a597eb92425698
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 17:03:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/0261ffa3fab0b1f7e0a597eb92425698Bob D'Amico/ABCReba McEntire’s been under the weather lately, after what she originally thought was laryngitis turned out to be a strep infection.

But even though she was forced to postpone a concert and miss Monday’s announcement of the 2019 inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame, you can bet she’ll be back in time to host the ACMs on Sunday, April 7 in Las Vegas.

In fact, if you’re willing to make a donation to charity, you can join her. Reba’s partnering with Omaze to give away a VIP trip to the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards, all to benefit ACM Lifting Lives, the organization’s charitable arm.

If you win, you’ll get airfare to Sin City, four-star accommodations, and a chance to meet Reba and hang out with her entourage. You’ll also get to see her rehearse her new single from Stronger Than the Truth, which comes out April 5.

You’d better hurry though, because you only have a handful of days to enter. The contest ends March 24 at 11:59 p.m. PT. You can find out more at Omaze.com/Reba.

]]>Bob D'Amico/ABCReba McEntire’s been under the weather lately, after what she originally thought was laryngitis turned out to be a strep infection.

But even though she was forced to postpone a concert and miss Monday’s announcement of the 2019 inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame, you can bet she’ll be back in time to host the ACMs on Sunday, April 7 in Las Vegas.

In fact, if you’re willing to make a donation to charity, you can join her. Reba’s partnering with Omaze to give away a VIP trip to the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards, all to benefit ACM Lifting Lives, the organization’s charitable arm.

If you win, you’ll get airfare to Sin City, four-star accommodations, and a chance to meet Reba and hang out with her entourage. You’ll also get to see her rehearse her new single from Stronger Than the Truth, which comes out April 5.

You’d better hurry though, because you only have a handful of days to enter. The contest ends March 24 at 11:59 p.m. PT. You can find out more at Omaze.com/Reba.

]]>Down Under with Michael Ray: Cute koalas, Carly and love for "One that Got Away"http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/2271fdc3b684bca9088a42e73637e67a
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 17:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/2271fdc3b684bca9088a42e73637e67aABC/Randy HolmesMichael Ray’s “One that Got Away” is nearing the top of the country chart in the U.S., but it’s clearly a huge hit in Australia as well.

The Florida native posted the proof on social media on Wednesday, showing the crowd Down Under drowning him out as he sang his hit at the CMC Rocks festival.

“I can’t believe how incredible this year has been and the life you all have given “One that Got Away” all around the world,” Michael captioned the clip.

“The crew and I celebrated it going Top 5 in the states, while in Australia,” he explained. “For me, this year is about moments, slowing down and living in them, so if you need me, I will be living in this moment over and over for a while!”

“Thank y’all for showing up, stealing the show and making my dreams come true,” he closed.

Michael also posted some pretty cute photos with his fiancée Carly Pearce and a koala. Eventually, Carly took the koala's place, putting a leaf in her mouth, and jumping into the arms of her husband-to-be.

]]>ABC/Randy HolmesMichael Ray’s “One that Got Away” is nearing the top of the country chart in the U.S., but it’s clearly a huge hit in Australia as well.

The Florida native posted the proof on social media on Wednesday, showing the crowd Down Under drowning him out as he sang his hit at the CMC Rocks festival.

“I can’t believe how incredible this year has been and the life you all have given “One that Got Away” all around the world,” Michael captioned the clip.

“The crew and I celebrated it going Top 5 in the states, while in Australia,” he explained. “For me, this year is about moments, slowing down and living in them, so if you need me, I will be living in this moment over and over for a while!”

“Thank y’all for showing up, stealing the show and making my dreams come true,” he closed.

Michael also posted some pretty cute photos with his fiancée Carly Pearce and a koala. Eventually, Carly took the koala's place, putting a leaf in her mouth, and jumping into the arms of her husband-to-be.

]]>"Every Mile a Memory": Dierks Bentley to play free Nashville concert during NFL Draft and St. Jude Marathonhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4a392b7b1f4f666df64248a71ace4973
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 14:30:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4a392b7b1f4f666df64248a71ace4973ABC/Image Group LADierks Bentley’s the latest country star to be drafted by the NFL.

While he won’t be hitting the football field anytime soon, he'll be doing a free concert next month when the NFL Draft comes to Nashville, just like Tim McGraw.

Both shows will take place on the Draft Main Stage at First and Broadway in downtown Nashville. Tim will play Friday, April 26; while Dierks will fire up the amps on Saturday, April 27.

That Saturday will be a particularly busy day in Music City: It’s also when the St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Nashville Marathon takes place.

Former Nashville star Charles Esten and Charlie Worsham will play sets during the NFL Draft, the first one ever to include a free music series.

]]>What's holding up Blake's marriage to Gwen? "Us Weekly" claims it's the Catholic Churchhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/2c72239e518e5e9f8863c48bf326057a
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 13:32:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/2c72239e518e5e9f8863c48bf326057aPhoto by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABCIt’s no secret Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are quite the happy couple these days -- so why haven’t they tied the knot? Us Weekly claims to know the answer.

Citing an unnamed, exclusive source, the publication says Gwen is waiting on the Catholic Church. She’s allegedly begun “the formal process” to have her marriage to rocker Gavin Rossdale annulled, “so she can marry Blake and have it be recognized by the church.”

]]>Photo by John Shearer/Getty Images via ABCIt’s no secret Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani are quite the happy couple these days -- so why haven’t they tied the knot? Us Weekly claims to know the answer.

Citing an unnamed, exclusive source, the publication says Gwen is waiting on the Catholic Church. She’s allegedly begun “the formal process” to have her marriage to rocker Gavin Rossdale annulled, “so she can marry Blake and have it be recognized by the church.”

]]>"Legend" in the making: Kelsea Ballerini goes gold while working on new musichttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/50497eaf4b7de1aa26672c8f1262971c
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 12:30:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/50497eaf4b7de1aa26672c8f1262971cABC/Image Group LAKelsea Ballerini’s been spending some golden days in the Golden State lately.

The “Legends” hitmaker has just learned her current top-15 single, “Miss Me More,” has been certified gold, and so has her previous hit, “I Hate Love Songs.”

She shared the news with her fans on social media, while also revealing an exciting -- if ambiguous -- tidbit about what’s coming next: She tweeted, “This was such encouraging news while working on so much new music."

We don’t know much more about what’s Kelsea’s up to, except that she’s likely in the Golden State. “California girl for a few days,” she posted on Instagram earlier in the week.

]]>ABC/Image Group LAKelsea Ballerini’s been spending some golden days in the Golden State lately.

The “Legends” hitmaker has just learned her current top-15 single, “Miss Me More,” has been certified gold, and so has her previous hit, “I Hate Love Songs.”

She shared the news with her fans on social media, while also revealing an exciting -- if ambiguous -- tidbit about what’s coming next: She tweeted, “This was such encouraging news while working on so much new music."

We don’t know much more about what’s Kelsea’s up to, except that she’s likely in the Golden State. “California girl for a few days,” she posted on Instagram earlier in the week.

]]>Country star triviahttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4b5a182bbc75eb2c463bc2a0149f475b
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 10:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4b5a182bbc75eb2c463bc2a0149f475bComstock/Thinkstock Twenty-five years ago this week, Neal McCoy hit #1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart with this tune, which was also the title track of his 1993 album. Can you name it? ANSWER: "No Doubt About It."

]]>Comstock/Thinkstock Twenty-five years ago this week, Neal McCoy hit #1 on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart with this tune, which was also the title track of his 1993 album. Can you name it? ANSWER: "No Doubt About It."

]]>Brantley Gilbert's story of love at first sight with Lindsay Ell: "She's not just a pretty face"http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/5ce15bfe8ea35dcf6e008774945b544b
Wed, 20 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/5ce15bfe8ea35dcf6e008774945b544bABC/Image Group LA

Brantley Gilbert's latest hit, "What Happens in a Small Town," is based on his life with his wife Amber, and how they came back together to get married and have a family after breaking up.

The Georgia native reveals it was also a case of love at first sight with his duet partner, Lindsey Ell -- mainly for his brother-in-law.

"She's awesome!" Brantley responds when asked about the Canadian guitar slinger. "We'd bumped into each other, but the first time we ever really met and I heard her play was when Amber and I got back together."

"Her mom and her and her brother wanted to go to the Opry, so we went up," he recalls. "Lindsay was playing that night, and my youngest brother-in-law fell in love with her."

"I've got to keep an eye on him now," Brantley jokes. "I don't trust him around her."

In truth, Brantley says he's thrilled to get to work with a newcomer as talented and well-loved as Lindsay.

"I always remembered the way she played," he explains. "And man, you know, kinda what you see is what you get. She's so genuine."

"And then when everybody else around her wants good things to happen for her," he adds, "and have the same things to say about her, you know, it just kind of solidifies the notion that she is the whole deal. She's not just a pretty face. She's incredibly talented. And she smokes the majority of the men I know that play guitar."

Look for new albums from both Lindsay and Brantley in the months to come. Lindsay's will be the follow-up to 2017's The Project, while Brantley's will be his first new music since The Devil Don't Sleep, also from 2017.

Brantley Gilbert's latest hit, "What Happens in a Small Town," is based on his life with his wife Amber, and how they came back together to get married and have a family after breaking up.

The Georgia native reveals it was also a case of love at first sight with his duet partner, Lindsey Ell -- mainly for his brother-in-law.

"She's awesome!" Brantley responds when asked about the Canadian guitar slinger. "We'd bumped into each other, but the first time we ever really met and I heard her play was when Amber and I got back together."

"Her mom and her and her brother wanted to go to the Opry, so we went up," he recalls. "Lindsay was playing that night, and my youngest brother-in-law fell in love with her."

"I've got to keep an eye on him now," Brantley jokes. "I don't trust him around her."

In truth, Brantley says he's thrilled to get to work with a newcomer as talented and well-loved as Lindsay.

"I always remembered the way she played," he explains. "And man, you know, kinda what you see is what you get. She's so genuine."

"And then when everybody else around her wants good things to happen for her," he adds, "and have the same things to say about her, you know, it just kind of solidifies the notion that she is the whole deal. She's not just a pretty face. She's incredibly talented. And she smokes the majority of the men I know that play guitar."

Look for new albums from both Lindsay and Brantley in the months to come. Lindsay's will be the follow-up to 2017's The Project, while Brantley's will be his first new music since The Devil Don't Sleep, also from 2017.

Billy Ray Cyrus will release his new concept album, The SnakeDoctor Circus, through BBR Music Group. It's a collaboration with Don Von Tress, who wrote his breakthrough smash, "Achy Breaky Heart." So far, BRC's new label hasn't revealed when the project will be out.

Newcomer Matt Stell -- who's currently getting noticed for his single, "Prayed for You" -- will make his Grand Ole Opry debut on April 27.

"Horses," the new track from Tegan Marie, is available to stream or download now. You can check out its video, which was created in collaboration with the Netflix series Spirit Riding Free, on YouTube.

]]>Burke/Triolo Productions/Thinkstock Watch for Jordan Davis singing his #1 hit, "Take It from Me," Wednesday on Good Morning America. The show starts at 7 a.m. ET on ABC.

Billy Ray Cyrus will release his new concept album, The SnakeDoctor Circus, through BBR Music Group. It's a collaboration with Don Von Tress, who wrote his breakthrough smash, "Achy Breaky Heart." So far, BRC's new label hasn't revealed when the project will be out.

Newcomer Matt Stell -- who's currently getting noticed for his single, "Prayed for You" -- will make his Grand Ole Opry debut on April 27.

"Horses," the new track from Tegan Marie, is available to stream or download now. You can check out its video, which was created in collaboration with the Netflix series Spirit Riding Free, on YouTube.

]]>Toes in the water: Zac Brown Band plans a Vegas pool party the night of the ACMshttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/da82195c7396b6ad9defe807e7e6e3fa
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 15:52:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/da82195c7396b6ad9defe807e7e6e3faABC/Eric McCandlessZac Brown Band will be playing a party at the pool the night of the ACMs in Las Vegas.

After the 54th Academy of Country Music Awards at MGM Grand Arena on Sunday, April 7, ZBB will kick off the KAOS Pool Concert Series at the Palms. The music gets underway at 10:30 p.m.

Tickets are on sale now for the unofficial post-ACM show. It’ll take place in the new KAOS Dayclub and Nightclub, which is part of a $690 million “reimagination” of the Palms Casino Resort.

This week, the title track of his new three-song EP debuts at #1 on Billboard’s Country Digital Song Sales chart, having sold 16,000 downloads. Though it’s Dustin’s sixth top ten on this particular chart, it’s his first #1.

Last week’s chart-topper, Thomas Rhett’s new “Look What God Gave Her,” slips to #4.

Meanwhile, Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy” hangs on at #1 on the Country Streaming Songs, Hot Country Songs, and Country Airplay tallies. It’s his fourth week at the top of the radio airplay chart.

]]>BBRLots of people are downloading Dustin Lynch’s new song, “Ridin’ Roads.”

This week, the title track of his new three-song EP debuts at #1 on Billboard’s Country Digital Song Sales chart, having sold 16,000 downloads. Though it’s Dustin’s sixth top ten on this particular chart, it’s his first #1.

Last week’s chart-topper, Thomas Rhett’s new “Look What God Gave Her,” slips to #4.

Meanwhile, Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy” hangs on at #1 on the Country Streaming Songs, Hot Country Songs, and Country Airplay tallies. It’s his fourth week at the top of the radio airplay chart.

]]>Backstreet Boy AJ McLean shows love through the years in video for his country single, "Boy and a Man"http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/112e6e7c44ad30be254362e7ff7da5a7
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 14:14:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/112e6e7c44ad30be254362e7ff7da5a7Tyler ShieldsBackstreet Boy AJ McLean already has a number one country single thanks to "God, Your Mama, and Me," his group's collaboration with Florida Georgia Line. Now, he's hoping to repeat his success with his first official solo country single, “Boy and a Man.”

The video for the song tells the story of a lifelong love, inspired by the Disney movie Up. It begins with AJ, as an old man, sitting in a rocking chair on his porch. The video then shows us the love story of a couple from childhood all the way through old age. AJ’s real-life wife, Rochelle, even makes an appearance.

“A look at the future. Lol,” AJ tweeted, along with a photo of himself in the old-man makeup. “Was so much fun to take inspiration from the movie Up for the #BoyAndAMan music video. Hope you all are enjoying it.”

AJ will debut his country-influenced solo album, Long Road, this spring. In addition to launching his solo project, he’ll be kicking off the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour in May.

]]>Tyler ShieldsBackstreet Boy AJ McLean already has a number one country single thanks to "God, Your Mama, and Me," his group's collaboration with Florida Georgia Line. Now, he's hoping to repeat his success with his first official solo country single, “Boy and a Man.”

The video for the song tells the story of a lifelong love, inspired by the Disney movie Up. It begins with AJ, as an old man, sitting in a rocking chair on his porch. The video then shows us the love story of a couple from childhood all the way through old age. AJ’s real-life wife, Rochelle, even makes an appearance.

“A look at the future. Lol,” AJ tweeted, along with a photo of himself in the old-man makeup. “Was so much fun to take inspiration from the movie Up for the #BoyAndAMan music video. Hope you all are enjoying it.”

AJ will debut his country-influenced solo album, Long Road, this spring. In addition to launching his solo project, he’ll be kicking off the Backstreet Boys DNA World Tour in May.

]]>FGL, Luke Combs, Dan+Shay, Dierks, B&amp;D, Church, Kelly Clarkson and more book stage time at the ACMshttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/426b01be3b790f5bbadb261fa4d11323
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 12:17:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/426b01be3b790f5bbadb261fa4d11323Academy of Country MusicThe 54th Academy of Country Music Awards are less than three weeks away, and the list of performers who’ll take the stage at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Vegas continues to grow.

]]>Academy of Country MusicThe 54th Academy of Country Music Awards are less than three weeks away, and the list of performers who’ll take the stage at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Vegas continues to grow.

]]>"Love (Yourself) Wins": Carrie Underwood radiates body positivity as she "bounces back" after the birth of baby Jacobhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/08e7c86d5f556692695483c8d9073050
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 11:53:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/08e7c86d5f556692695483c8d9073050ABC/Mark LevineIn about six weeks, Carrie Underwood will hit the road on her Cry Pretty Tour. As she gets ready, she’s also taking care of her new baby Jacob, who was born January 21.

Tuesday, the fitness enthusiast checked in with her fans after her workout.

“I’m going to be honest,” Carrie started the lengthy post. “‘Bouncing back’ after having Jacob has been much more difficult than after I had Isaiah."

“I go into the gym and I can’t run as fast or as far,” she explains. “I can’t lift as much weight or do as many reps as I could a year ago."

She continues: “I realized that for the past 11(ish) months, my body has not belonged to me. It was a perfect home for Jacob. And even now, it belongs to him, every time he drinks his milk.”

“As I prepare for red carpets and for life on tour,” Carrie goes on, “right now I make a promise to myself to start appreciating what my body CAN do and stop focusing on what it can’t. I promise to stop analyzing every angle and every curve and every pound and every meal.”

“I’m going to keep staying the path,” she concludes, “because it is a journey and as long as I’m always working towards my goals, one day I’ll reach them."

"I’m going to take it day by day, smile at the girl in the mirror, and work out because I love this body and all it has done and will continue to do!”

Carrie also included a gym-mirror selfie, and most casual observers would agree that she looks pretty fit.

Prior to the tour, Carrie’s up for Female Artist at the April 7 ACM Awards in Las Vegas.

]]>ABC/Mark LevineIn about six weeks, Carrie Underwood will hit the road on her Cry Pretty Tour. As she gets ready, she’s also taking care of her new baby Jacob, who was born January 21.

Tuesday, the fitness enthusiast checked in with her fans after her workout.

“I’m going to be honest,” Carrie started the lengthy post. “‘Bouncing back’ after having Jacob has been much more difficult than after I had Isaiah."

“I go into the gym and I can’t run as fast or as far,” she explains. “I can’t lift as much weight or do as many reps as I could a year ago."

She continues: “I realized that for the past 11(ish) months, my body has not belonged to me. It was a perfect home for Jacob. And even now, it belongs to him, every time he drinks his milk.”

“As I prepare for red carpets and for life on tour,” Carrie goes on, “right now I make a promise to myself to start appreciating what my body CAN do and stop focusing on what it can’t. I promise to stop analyzing every angle and every curve and every pound and every meal.”

“I’m going to keep staying the path,” she concludes, “because it is a journey and as long as I’m always working towards my goals, one day I’ll reach them."

"I’m going to take it day by day, smile at the girl in the mirror, and work out because I love this body and all it has done and will continue to do!”

Carrie also included a gym-mirror selfie, and most casual observers would agree that she looks pretty fit.

Prior to the tour, Carrie’s up for Female Artist at the April 7 ACM Awards in Las Vegas.

]]>George Strait and Blake Shelton do a little cowboy comedy to promote summer stadium showhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/5706e7c7b531864a5d2052e8c7dd595a
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 11:28:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/5706e7c7b531864a5d2052e8c7dd595aMCA NashvilleGeorge Strait may’ve officially retired from the road in 2014, but nearly five years later, there are still plenty of chances to see the Country Music Hall of Famer play live.

The latest will be Saturday, August 17 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Blake Shelton, “On My Way to You” hitmaker Cody Johnson and newcomer Caitlyn Smith will join him for the show at the home of the New England Patriots.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 29.

Strait announced the concert on his socials Tuesday morning, in a dryly comic video where Blake pokes fun at George for continuing to work even though he’s retired from traditional touring.

King George, at the same time, heckles Blake by saying he never watches The Voice but is a big fan of Blake’s rival, Adam Levine.

George has his first top-25 hit in awhile right now with “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar.” The full Honky Tonk Time Machine album arrives March 29.

]]>MCA NashvilleGeorge Strait may’ve officially retired from the road in 2014, but nearly five years later, there are still plenty of chances to see the Country Music Hall of Famer play live.

The latest will be Saturday, August 17 at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Massachusetts. Blake Shelton, “On My Way to You” hitmaker Cody Johnson and newcomer Caitlyn Smith will join him for the show at the home of the New England Patriots.

Tickets go on sale Friday, March 29.

Strait announced the concert on his socials Tuesday morning, in a dryly comic video where Blake pokes fun at George for continuing to work even though he’s retired from traditional touring.

King George, at the same time, heckles Blake by saying he never watches The Voice but is a big fan of Blake’s rival, Adam Levine.

George has his first top-25 hit in awhile right now with “Every Little Honky Tonk Bar.” The full Honky Tonk Time Machine album arrives March 29.

]]>'American Idol' final auditions: Surprise appearances, a former country star and a Maddie Poppe prankhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4b83f003b61c0c72bdf6fb51e685aae9
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/4b83f003b61c0c72bdf6fb51e685aae9"American Idol" champ Maddie Poppe removes her disguise; ABC/Kelsey McNealAmericanIdol's final audition episode of the season aired Monday night, and it was a crazy combination of unexpected guest appearances, the usual sob stories and one very funny prank, courtesy of reigning Idol champ Maddie Poppe.

Attack of last season's finalistsAbout 90 minutes into the show, we were introduced to a goth chick who called herself Lady Mapo and sported pierced lips, a pierced nose, purple lipstick and a bad attitude. She said she wanted to audition because last year's show was "too American." The judges were put off by her -- until the music started, and that was the clue: It was "Rainbow Connection." Lady Mapo then pulled off her wig and revealed herself to be none other than Maddie Poppe. The judges screamed and seemed genuinely surprised to see her.

Another surprise appearance came courtesy of Maddie's boyfriend and last season's runner-up, Caleb Lee Hutchinson. He showed up to support Jared Sanders, his friend since age 10, who was auditioning after being inspired by Caleb's success. Caleb and Jared's bromance was super-strong, but it wasn't enough to earn Jared a ticket to Hollywood.

We also saw a montage of other contestants from last year showing up to say hi to the judges on the audition trail, including Catie Turner, Noah Davis and Dennis Lorenzo.

A 90s country star resurfacesSixteen-year-old Chloe Channell's "backup guitarist" just happened to be Billy Dean, an award-winning '90s country star with a string of hits. Apparently, legendary country star Kenny Rogers discovered Chloe, and then Billy became her musical mentor. Of course, Luke Bryan knew Billy and ran down his career achievements, which Billy shrugged off, saying, "I'm all good and washed-up now!"

Chloe impressed the judges with her version of Keith Urban's "Stupid Boy," and Lionel Richie and Billy bonded over having met before -- and also over Kenny Rogers, for whom Lionel wrote the 1980 smash hit, "Lady." Chloe got a golden ticket, and Luke and Billy harmonized on a chorus of Billy's 1991 hit song, "Only Here for a Little While."

The sob storiesTwenty-five-year-old Ryan Hammond is a pastor's son, and Katy Perry was pretty sure her parents, who are also ministers, had worked with Ryan's dad at some point. Ryan used to weigh 330 pounds but underwent weight-loss surgery and dropped 170 pounds. Complications from the surgery nearly killed him, but now he's svelte and healthy. His version of "Lay Me Down" by Sam Smith earned him a golden ticket.

Twenty-three-year-old Jorgie was born in Israel to very conservative parents who don't know he's gay. When he was 18, he moved to L.A. and started his music career. He told Katy her song "I Kissed a Girl" proved to him that being gay was mainstream and nothing to be ashamed of. He said he'd never told his family that he was gay, so he was doing it right now, on national television. His original song, "Heaven," about unrequited love for a guy named Jeffrey, was his ticket to Hollywood.

Twenty-one-year-old Emma Kleinberg and her brother, Alex, her hero, tried out for American Idol together years ago but neither of them made it. Alex developed bipolar disorder after college and tried to take his own life. He survived, but is now severely brain-damaged. Emma sang "American Privilege" by Allen Stone and earned a trip to Hollywood.

Nineteen-year-old Jackson Gillies lives in Katy's hometown of Santa Barbara, CA, and met her a while back at a benefit concert for first responders. He's been diabetic since age three but several years ago, he also developed an autoimmune disorder called H.S., which attacks the skin. There's no cure, but Jackson maintains a positive attitude. His version of "Make It Rain" by Foy Vance -- which Ed Sheeran recorded in 2014 for the TV show Sons of Anarchy -- blew the judges away.

And the restOthers going to Hollywood include 22-year-old Nick Merico, the former star of the Nickelodeon series Every Witch Way; champion clogger Zebulon Spencer; and 19-year-old Long Island crooner Christiaan Padovan.

The American Idol "Hollywood Week" episodes begin this Sunday night on ABC.

]]>"American Idol" champ Maddie Poppe removes her disguise; ABC/Kelsey McNealAmericanIdol's final audition episode of the season aired Monday night, and it was a crazy combination of unexpected guest appearances, the usual sob stories and one very funny prank, courtesy of reigning Idol champ Maddie Poppe.

Attack of last season's finalistsAbout 90 minutes into the show, we were introduced to a goth chick who called herself Lady Mapo and sported pierced lips, a pierced nose, purple lipstick and a bad attitude. She said she wanted to audition because last year's show was "too American." The judges were put off by her -- until the music started, and that was the clue: It was "Rainbow Connection." Lady Mapo then pulled off her wig and revealed herself to be none other than Maddie Poppe. The judges screamed and seemed genuinely surprised to see her.

Another surprise appearance came courtesy of Maddie's boyfriend and last season's runner-up, Caleb Lee Hutchinson. He showed up to support Jared Sanders, his friend since age 10, who was auditioning after being inspired by Caleb's success. Caleb and Jared's bromance was super-strong, but it wasn't enough to earn Jared a ticket to Hollywood.

We also saw a montage of other contestants from last year showing up to say hi to the judges on the audition trail, including Catie Turner, Noah Davis and Dennis Lorenzo.

A 90s country star resurfacesSixteen-year-old Chloe Channell's "backup guitarist" just happened to be Billy Dean, an award-winning '90s country star with a string of hits. Apparently, legendary country star Kenny Rogers discovered Chloe, and then Billy became her musical mentor. Of course, Luke Bryan knew Billy and ran down his career achievements, which Billy shrugged off, saying, "I'm all good and washed-up now!"

Chloe impressed the judges with her version of Keith Urban's "Stupid Boy," and Lionel Richie and Billy bonded over having met before -- and also over Kenny Rogers, for whom Lionel wrote the 1980 smash hit, "Lady." Chloe got a golden ticket, and Luke and Billy harmonized on a chorus of Billy's 1991 hit song, "Only Here for a Little While."

The sob storiesTwenty-five-year-old Ryan Hammond is a pastor's son, and Katy Perry was pretty sure her parents, who are also ministers, had worked with Ryan's dad at some point. Ryan used to weigh 330 pounds but underwent weight-loss surgery and dropped 170 pounds. Complications from the surgery nearly killed him, but now he's svelte and healthy. His version of "Lay Me Down" by Sam Smith earned him a golden ticket.

Twenty-three-year-old Jorgie was born in Israel to very conservative parents who don't know he's gay. When he was 18, he moved to L.A. and started his music career. He told Katy her song "I Kissed a Girl" proved to him that being gay was mainstream and nothing to be ashamed of. He said he'd never told his family that he was gay, so he was doing it right now, on national television. His original song, "Heaven," about unrequited love for a guy named Jeffrey, was his ticket to Hollywood.

Twenty-one-year-old Emma Kleinberg and her brother, Alex, her hero, tried out for American Idol together years ago but neither of them made it. Alex developed bipolar disorder after college and tried to take his own life. He survived, but is now severely brain-damaged. Emma sang "American Privilege" by Allen Stone and earned a trip to Hollywood.

Nineteen-year-old Jackson Gillies lives in Katy's hometown of Santa Barbara, CA, and met her a while back at a benefit concert for first responders. He's been diabetic since age three but several years ago, he also developed an autoimmune disorder called H.S., which attacks the skin. There's no cure, but Jackson maintains a positive attitude. His version of "Make It Rain" by Foy Vance -- which Ed Sheeran recorded in 2014 for the TV show Sons of Anarchy -- blew the judges away.

And the restOthers going to Hollywood include 22-year-old Nick Merico, the former star of the Nickelodeon series Every Witch Way; champion clogger Zebulon Spencer; and 19-year-old Long Island crooner Christiaan Padovan.

The American Idol "Hollywood Week" episodes begin this Sunday night on ABC.

]]>Brooks &amp; Dunn are bound for the Hall of Fame: "We made a big ole mess out there for 20 years"http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/d602859a376c2979c01a0400743df004
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/d602859a376c2979c01a0400743df004ABC Radio

Monday, the world learned something Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn have known for several weeks: Brooks & Dunn will be this year's Modern Era inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame.

"The first thing I did was get in the car, and go tell everybody I knew," he admits. "Luckily, it didn't leak out."

Ironically, Kix and Ronnie weren't on board in the beginning when they were urged to abandon their solo careers to work together. "We did not want to be a duo," Ronnie points out, as Kix laughs. "We started and it just caught on, and we went with it. And we became a darn duo."

"I guess it means that anything can happen," Ronnie reflects. "You just put one foot in front of the other and keep moving," adding with a laugh, "Today's a good day to be a duo."

Ultimately, both Kix and Ronnie are thankful for their partnership.

"We owe each other a lot," Kix admits. "And the major part of our recognition came from whatever it was that we did... and had together."

"And we've never been able to describe that or explain that," he adds. "We get introduced and we jump in a rocket ship and take off."

B&D will officially join the Hall during the Medallion Ceremony this fall.

"I'm proud to go in with Ronnie," Kix says. "We made a big ole mess out there for twenty years. It was a lot of fun, and I look back on it with a big ole smile on my face."

"It's like, I don't know how the hell that happened," he says, "but man, I guess it did or we wouldn't be sitting here right now."

"The first thing I did was get in the car, and go tell everybody I knew," he admits. "Luckily, it didn't leak out."

Ironically, Kix and Ronnie weren't on board in the beginning when they were urged to abandon their solo careers to work together. "We did not want to be a duo," Ronnie points out, as Kix laughs. "We started and it just caught on, and we went with it. And we became a darn duo."

"I guess it means that anything can happen," Ronnie reflects. "You just put one foot in front of the other and keep moving," adding with a laugh, "Today's a good day to be a duo."

Ultimately, both Kix and Ronnie are thankful for their partnership.

"We owe each other a lot," Kix admits. "And the major part of our recognition came from whatever it was that we did... and had together."

"And we've never been able to describe that or explain that," he adds. "We get introduced and we jump in a rocket ship and take off."

B&D will officially join the Hall during the Medallion Ceremony this fall.

"I'm proud to go in with Ronnie," Kix says. "We made a big ole mess out there for twenty years. It was a lot of fun, and I look back on it with a big ole smile on my face."

"It's like, I don't know how the hell that happened," he says, "but man, I guess it did or we wouldn't be sitting here right now."

]]>Nashville noteshttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/8deb7ab7232751bcc7a32d03412d689a
Tue, 19 Mar 2019 05:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/8deb7ab7232751bcc7a32d03412d689aBurke/Triolo Productions/Thinkstock Carly Pearce recently filmed a new acoustic take on her hit, "Closer to You," at Music City's Ocean Way Studios. You can check out the YouTube Nashville Sessions version of the the tune online.

Brad Paisley and Little Big Town are the headliners for Live in the Vineyard Goes Country May 14-16 in Napa Valley, California. Brothers Osborne, Chris Lane, Cody Johnson, LANCO, Michael Ray, Morgan Evans, Scotty McCreery, Walker Hayes and more are also on the bill.

Maren Morris guests on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET on Bravo.

If you missed Rascal Flatts doing "Back to Life" on ABC's Good Morning America, you can watch their performance online.

]]>Burke/Triolo Productions/Thinkstock Carly Pearce recently filmed a new acoustic take on her hit, "Closer to You," at Music City's Ocean Way Studios. You can check out the YouTube Nashville Sessions version of the the tune online.

Brad Paisley and Little Big Town are the headliners for Live in the Vineyard Goes Country May 14-16 in Napa Valley, California. Brothers Osborne, Chris Lane, Cody Johnson, LANCO, Michael Ray, Morgan Evans, Scotty McCreery, Walker Hayes and more are also on the bill.

Maren Morris guests on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET on Bravo.

If you missed Rascal Flatts doing "Back to Life" on ABC's Good Morning America, you can watch their performance online.

We know the Canadian country/pop superstar’s been spending some time there recently: She recently took in Gwen Stefani’s show at Planet Hollywood, and this past weekend, she presented Lionel Richie with an award at MGM Grand Garden Arena.

"He's my buddy, my pal, he's a lifesaver and a really wonderful friend,” she said of Lionel Saturday at the Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala. “I'm happy to be here for him.”

“I have a personal interest in the cause,” she added. “My grandmother had Alzheimer's. It's a very devastating disease and we just need more awareness."

Earlier, on the event’s purple carpet, she alluded to her potential return by teasing, "I will be singing somewhere. I wonder where that is going to be."

We know the Canadian country/pop superstar’s been spending some time there recently: She recently took in Gwen Stefani’s show at Planet Hollywood, and this past weekend, she presented Lionel Richie with an award at MGM Grand Garden Arena.

"He's my buddy, my pal, he's a lifesaver and a really wonderful friend,” she said of Lionel Saturday at the Keep Memory Alive Power of Love Gala. “I'm happy to be here for him.”

“I have a personal interest in the cause,” she added. “My grandmother had Alzheimer's. It's a very devastating disease and we just need more awareness."

Earlier, on the event’s purple carpet, she alluded to her potential return by teasing, "I will be singing somewhere. I wonder where that is going to be."

]]>"My Girl" or my boy: Dylan Scott prepares to welcome baby #2http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/e4910512b88890b12009f09732d65adf
Mon, 18 Mar 2019 15:52:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/e4910512b88890b12009f09732d65adfCurbDylan Scott and his wife Blair are expecting their second child in the fall. The new little one will join big brother Beckett, who celebrated his first birthday in December.

“Secret is out! Baby number 2 coming September 2019!” Dylan announced on his socials, along with a photo of the whole family, dressed in black, holding gold balloons spelling out the word "baby."

The “Hooked” hitmaker says he and Blair decided that since they’re used to changing diapers and middle-of-the-night feedings, it just made sense to expand their family now.

“Blair came to me when Beckett was less than a year old and said, ‘Why get out of the process now? Let’s just have another kid,’ Dylan tells People.

“I was like, ‘Babe, are you sure you want to do this?’” he continues. “But the more I thought about it, I was thinking that I’m 28 and she’s 29 and we are getting to our 30s.”

“I think it would be really cool for Beckett to have a little sister or a little brother really close in age so they can grow up together. We both want big families.”

Blair broke the good news to Dylan over the holidays, by giving him a special gift at her family’s Christmas gathering. Inside was a pregnancy test and a pair of tiny socks.

The Louisiana native hits the road on Chris Young’s Raised on Country Tour in May, as his latest single, “Nothing to Do Town,” climbs the chart.

]]>Somebody's Gotta...open for Garth: This Saturday, it'll be Easton Corbinhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/b91848d176023f421d28c912af190de9
Mon, 18 Mar 2019 15:21:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/b91848d176023f421d28c912af190de9377/Redlight ManagementGarth Brooks has invited Easton Corbin to open his show this Saturday, when the superstar brings his Stadium Tour to the Phoenix area.

“Wow, you can’t get much bigger than this invite!” Easton reacts. “I am beyond excited to have this opportunity to open for Garth Brooks, one of my musical heroes. There are few artists in all of music who do it right like he does, from how he treats his fans to how he treats other artists like myself.”

“This is an honor he thought of me,” the Florida native adds. “I’m going to play my set and then I’m going to stand there side of stage and soak it in and watch him do what he does. It’s going to be a good night.”

The Saturday, March 23 show takes place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Fans can expect to hear Easton’s latest single, “Somebody’s Gotta Be Country.”

]]>377/Redlight ManagementGarth Brooks has invited Easton Corbin to open his show this Saturday, when the superstar brings his Stadium Tour to the Phoenix area.

“Wow, you can’t get much bigger than this invite!” Easton reacts. “I am beyond excited to have this opportunity to open for Garth Brooks, one of my musical heroes. There are few artists in all of music who do it right like he does, from how he treats his fans to how he treats other artists like myself.”

“This is an honor he thought of me,” the Florida native adds. “I’m going to play my set and then I’m going to stand there side of stage and soak it in and watch him do what he does. It’s going to be a good night.”

The Saturday, March 23 show takes place at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Fans can expect to hear Easton’s latest single, “Somebody’s Gotta Be Country.”

]]>Tim McGraw to play free Nashville show during NFL Drafthttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/885b5bdc4462b834d28d1e4a6eac59cf
Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:00:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/885b5bdc4462b834d28d1e4a6eac59cfABC/Image Group LATim McGraw will do a free outdoor concert in Nashville next month as the NFL Draft comes to Music City.

Gospel legend CeCe Winans will kick off the festivities on Thursday, April 25 by singing the national anthem. Tim’s concert will follow on Friday on the Draft Main Stage at First and Broadway downtown -- where the player selections will also take place.

The “Thought About You” hitmaker’s not just showing up to sing, though: He’s also on the organizing committee that helped bring the 2019 NFL Draft to Nashville.

Music will be a major component of the draft coming to Music City, with more than twenty Nashville-based acts set to play between April 25 and 27. Look for more performers to be revealed in the coming days.

]]>ABC/Image Group LATim McGraw will do a free outdoor concert in Nashville next month as the NFL Draft comes to Music City.

Gospel legend CeCe Winans will kick off the festivities on Thursday, April 25 by singing the national anthem. Tim’s concert will follow on Friday on the Draft Main Stage at First and Broadway downtown -- where the player selections will also take place.

The “Thought About You” hitmaker’s not just showing up to sing, though: He’s also on the organizing committee that helped bring the 2019 NFL Draft to Nashville.

Music will be a major component of the draft coming to Music City, with more than twenty Nashville-based acts set to play between April 25 and 27. Look for more performers to be revealed in the coming days.

]]>You go, "Girl": Maren Morris scores record-setting #1 debut with second recordhttp://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/cdcdbb13c15b60e9270a6efbd259d740
Mon, 18 Mar 2019 13:06:00 -0500http://wbch.com/news/country-music-news/cdcdbb13c15b60e9270a6efbd259d740Columbia NashvilleGirl, the sophomore album by Maren Morris, arrives at number one on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, selling 46,000 equivalent album units in its first week. It also places fourth on the all-genre Billboard 200 as well.

It’s the first #1 debut by a female artist on the country albums chart this year. In fact, the last time a woman entered the chart at #1 was back in September, when Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty opened at the top.

Girl also generated nearly 24 million on-demand audio streams during its first week -- a new record for a female country artist. In addition, the album was streamed more during its first week than any other country album so far this year.

"I am blown away by the support this last week," Maren tells Billboard. "My fans were already screaming the lyrics at the show the day after the album came out.”

“I am so shocked and thankful to have broken this record for country music,” she adds.

]]>Columbia NashvilleGirl, the sophomore album by Maren Morris, arrives at number one on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, selling 46,000 equivalent album units in its first week. It also places fourth on the all-genre Billboard 200 as well.

It’s the first #1 debut by a female artist on the country albums chart this year. In fact, the last time a woman entered the chart at #1 was back in September, when Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty opened at the top.

Girl also generated nearly 24 million on-demand audio streams during its first week -- a new record for a female country artist. In addition, the album was streamed more during its first week than any other country album so far this year.

"I am blown away by the support this last week," Maren tells Billboard. "My fans were already screaming the lyrics at the show the day after the album came out.”

“I am so shocked and thankful to have broken this record for country music,” she adds.